Savremena first-graders learned to tie their shoelaces during a creative lesson with teacher Milica Babin. Although this is no easy skill to master, anything can be done with a little imagination and determination.

Learning a new skill is a challenge for children, and tying shoelaces is no exception. Many children unconsciously refuse to wear shoes with laces so as to avoid this ‘little problem’ altogether. But, if we don’t view tying shoelaces as an obstacle, but rather as a challenge, we will change the situation and success will inevitably come.

All children got their creative cardboard shoes. First, the teacher explained they need to pay attention to the difference between the left and the right shoe, and the importance of knowing which shoelace goes into which hand so they could make a knot. Their work began with a slogan:

”Tying shoelaces is easy to do, if I can do it, so can you”. 

They began with a very simple task learning to tie a knot, and repeated the action until they mastered it. Then they were shown a simple way to tie shoelaces: simple knot first, followed by loops, and finally another simple knot.

Students quickly gained confidence, and those who needed extra help got it until everyone was able to tie their shoelaces on their own.

To help children to master these skills, the teacher taught them a fun song which helped them memorise the steps easier. One of such songs is Bunny Rabbit.

Over, under, around and through,

Meet Mr. Bunny Rabbit, pull and through.

Most children are able to learn to tie their shoelaces between the ages of four and six. In primary school, when they are learning to become more independent, it is a mandatory activity for encouraging self-confidence and independence.